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Repair bill spells end for Cumbrian church

Mounting costs have forced the closure after 141 years of an historic harbourside church.

The decision to shut Christ Church in Maryport was taken by the Parochial Church Council after it emerged that urgent repairs would cost over £110,000.

Christ Church has been closed for about a month because its boiler and heating system failed. There was also concern about the wiring, electrics and roof.

The church council said the congregation was also unable to generate enough income to cover running costs.

The parochial council will explore its next move with legal and property advisers but a possible outcome is that the building may be sold.

A campaign has been launched to have Maryport’s old lighthouse illuminated during special occasions in the town.

John Smith, of Netherton, has set up the campaign on social networking website Facebook after an online discussion sparked interest.

Mr Smith, 27, runs a Facebook page called “Maryport through the ages” where he first mooted the idea.

He said the lighthouse was a symbol of the town and could be lit up for occasions such as the blues festival and harbour festival.

Richard Key, harbour master, said there would be no navigational hazard to using the light at certain times. He added: “However, it belongs to Allerdale council and it would not be up to us to light it.”

Allerdale council said it was a navigational matter and would be up to the harbour authority.

The Maryport town team endorsed the idea on Wednesday and town centre manager Toni Magean said he would raise the matter with Maryport Town Council.